Best Handheld Gaming Consoles of 2024: A Comprehensive Guide

The world of gaming has evolved, and with it, the way we experience our favorite titles. 

While home consoles and gaming PCs remain dominant, the desire for portable gaming devices is undeniable. This is because handheld gaming consoles offer the freedom to enjoy high-quality gaming experiences wherever you go, turning commutes, travel, and even waiting rooms into gaming sessions.

The Rise of Handheld Gaming Consoles

There are many reasons to consider handheld gaming consoles. The most obvious benefit is the ability to play while away from home, but the all-in-one nature of a gaming handheld is also appealing. They eliminate the need for a dedicated monitor or extra accessories, making them convenient and portable.

The market for handheld gaming consoles has exploded in recent years, driven by technological advancements and the desire for more flexible gaming options. Nintendo continues to be a major player with its Nintendo Switch line, but other companies like Valve have also made contributions with devices like the Steam Deck.

Gaming handheld reviews consistently highlight the growing variety and quality of these devices, making 2024 an exciting time for portable gaming enthusiasts.

Choosing the Right Handheld Gaming Console

With so many excellent handheld gaming consoles available, selecting the right one can be daunting. Here's a breakdown of some of the top handheld consoles of 2024, considering different needs and preferences:

Best Overall: Nintendo Switch OLED

The first and overall best on our list is the Nintendo Switch OLED and here’s why:

1. The Nintendo Switch OLED is widely considered the best handheld console on the market. Its stunning OLED screen, enhanced speakers, increased storage, and innovative detachable controllers make it a top choice.
2. The Nintendo Switch OLED excels in its library of exclusive games, particularly those developed by Nintendo, which are designed for optimal visual and performance quality on the console.
3. While it offers a more affordable option compared to some home consoles, the Nintendo Switch OLED does have performance limitations, with some third-party games struggling to maintain consistent frame rates, especially when played in docked mode on a TV.

Best Budget: Nintendo Switch Lite

The next on the line is the Nintendo Switch Lite which doubles as the best budget:

1. For those on a budget or seeking a durable handheld for kids, the Nintendo Switch Lite is a great option.
2. While sacrificing the ability to play on a TV, it offers a smaller, more portable design at a lower cost. It is available in a variety of colors and boasts a durable design.
3. The Nintendo Switch Lite is ideal for portable play, with its smaller size making it easy to carry. The attached controllers minimize the risk of losing them, making it a practical choice for children.

Best for PC Gamers: Steam Deck OLED

The best PC for gamers is the Steam Deck OLED. Here’s why:

1. PC gamers will find the Steam Deck OLED to be an excellent choice. This powerful device grants access to a vast library of Steam games on the go, all on a beautiful OLED screen.
2. The Steam Deck OLED stands as a more affordable alternative to a gaming laptop, making it a great entry point for portable PC gaming.
3. The Steam Deck OLED's size might be a drawback for some, and not all games from your Steam library will be compatible due to the operating system.

Best for Retro Gaming: Super Pocket

Retro gaming enthusiasts should consider the Super Pocket for these reasons:

1. Its affordability, compact size, and diverse built-in game library make it a retro gamer's dream. It also has the added benefit of compatibility with Evercade cartridges.
2. The Super Pocket shines with its compact size and affordability, making it an easily portable and accessible option for retro gaming. The built-in library, along with support for Evercade cartridges, offers a wide array of retro titles.

Best for Remote Play: PlayStation Portal

For PlayStation 5 owners, the PlayStation Portal is a fantastic choice. Here’s why:

1. This device streams your existing PS5 game library over the internet, offering a seamless remote play experience with an ergonomic design based on the DualSense controller.
2. The PlayStation Portal stands out for its ergonomic design, based on the DualSense controller, making it comfortable for extended gameplay sessions. It is important to note that a PS5 console and consistent internet connection are required to use the PlayStation Portal.

Factors to Consider When Buying a Handheld Gaming Console

Several key aspects should inform your decision when choosing a handheld gaming console:

Game Library

Consider the games you want to play. Each console has its strengths and weaknesses. The Nintendo Switch boasts an impressive library of exclusive titles, while the Steam Deck offers a vast library of PC games.

Performance

How important is smooth gameplay? The Steam Deck and Asus ROG Ally are powerful devices capable of handling demanding titles, while the Nintendo Switch and Super Pocket focus on specific game genres and offer different levels of performance.

Budget

What's your price range? Options like the Nintendo Switch Lite and Super Pocket provide affordable entry points, while the Steam Deck OLED and Asus ROG Ally cater to those seeking higher-end experiences.

Features

What extras are important to you? Features like OLED screens, detachable controllers, and remote play capabilities can influence your choice. The Nintendo Switch OLED and Steam Deck OLED offer stunning visuals, while the PlayStation Portal excels in remote play.

Handheld Consoles Beyond the Top Five

Other than the top handheld consoles already mentioned, these top picks are great options too:

1. Nintendo Switch: This is the original model of the Nintendo Switch. While newer models like the OLED version are available, the original Switch remains a good option, especially when found on sale or in bundle deals.
2. Asus ROG Ally X: This handheld is a premium alternative to the Steam Deck OLED, offering more power, better battery life, and Windows 11 support. However, its high price tag prevents it from being a top pick for most users.
3. Lenovo Legion Go: This is another Steam Deck competitor that boasts features like a built-in kickstand and improved performance. However, its software can be problematic.
4. Steam Deck: This is the older model of the Steam Deck, which can sometimes be found on sale or in the second-hand market. While the OLED version is recommended for new buyers, the original Steam Deck might be a viable option if buying used.

Final Thoughts

Handheld gaming consoles have come a long way, offering a diverse range of options for gamers of all types. Whether you're a seasoned PC gamer, a retro enthusiast, or a casual player seeking a convenient and portable gaming experience, there's a perfect handheld console out there for you. By considering your gaming preferences, desired features, and budget, you can find the ideal device to enhance your gaming journey in 2024 and beyond.